Have you ever wondered about the Camosun students writing the articles you read in Nexus? Know Your Writers will help you dive into the minds of the writers behind the stories. This issue, we caught up with student editor Adam Marsh.
What drew you to journalism?
Initially, I was just eager to write; I realized pretty quickly that writing was a small portion of the job. Most of it is talking to people, finding a truth, and fact-checking the hell out of that truth. The two things I enjoy most in this world are talking to people in a meaningful way and writing about it, so journalism is perfect. As the days wear on, it’s sad to see the effect that social media has had on the ethics of journalism, but it’s nice to know that because Nexus is completely independent of the college, we can report on everything from new music to the sudden and unexplained retirement of a teacher at the college, and the readers know that it’s honest writing. Also, I like the idea of readers knowing the name, but not the face. (I guess that’s no more now.)
What is the most awkward moment you’ve had in an interview?
I interviewed a Camosun student on her struggle with mental health, and I had to ask her for details regarding her self-harm (instruments she used, how it made her feel to cut) and her stay at Eric Martin Pavilion. She was very transparent, and it was rewarding, but my heart was pounding the entire time. It’s interviews like that that make me so proud of what we do here.
What are the worst and best parts of your job at the paper?
Waiting for a source to get back to me is frustrating sometimes, because you can only call and email so many times, and it doesn’t matter if it’s 10 pm on a Friday: once they do call, I have to take it. The other side of that coin is that if I want to work at 2 am, which I often do, I can. No paycheque can compete with that freedom.
Why did you originally come to Camosun?
I stumbled into the Creative Writing program here. I was going through a rough time with substance use and addiction after high school—I’ve been clean and sober since 2013; it can be done, I tell you!—and the Individual Education Plan coordinator down the road at St. Michaels just kind of signed me up. I’m awfully glad she did, because my job, my girlfriend, and my education all came from being here.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Exercise is essential for me. I also like meditating. If you sit in silence for 20 minutes a day and say a mantra, your brain will change. Trust me. It doesn’t matter how busy I am, I always make time for hobbies. Self-care isn’t selfish.